Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability has long been recognized internationally. The country’s decision to abolish its army in 1948 and prioritize health and education laid the foundation for its environmental stewardship. Today, nearly 30% of Costa Rica’s land is protected, and renewable energy sources provide almost all of its electricity needs. At IMEX, the country’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices was evident in its partnership with ICCA. This collaboration aims to foster sustainable growth through education, policy changes, and job creation. Innovative measures, such as a carbon calculator for convention centers and the adaptation of Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism certification program for global use, are being implemented to elevate sustainability practices worldwide.
The MICE Forest initiative, launched in 2018, is another key project aimed at mitigating the environmental impact of events. Located in Guanacaste, this reforestation project has already planted over 33,000 trees, with plans to add 3,500 more this year. Each tree is estimated to absorb one ton of carbon dioxide over 15 years, making a significant contribution to carbon sequestration. The highlight of Costa Rica’s showcase at IMEX was an art installation made from plastic waste, created by the 5 Minute Foundation. This artwork, representing fossils from the Anthropocene, drew attention to the pervasive issue of plastic pollution. By encouraging participation in clean-up campaigns and sharing the results on social media, the foundation aimed to raise awareness about the impact of plastic waste on our environment.
Through these initiatives, Costa Rica continues to lead the way in promoting eco-friendly practices and inspiring other countries and organizations to adopt sustainable measures. The plastic art display at IMEX served as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship in the MICE industry and beyond.
